American Revolution Experience coming to Smiley Library

To celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, the Arrowhead Valley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and A.K. Smiley Public Library are excited to announce a special national traveling exhibit, the American Revolution Experience, opening Aug. 28 in the library’s Assembly Room, 125 W. Vine St.

This innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology, unique artifacts and firsthand accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.

Created through a collaboration between the American Battlefield Trust and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the exhibit is also made possible through generous matching funds from the National Park Service.

The exhibit will run through Sept. 15, 2026. Admission is free and visitors of all ages are welcome. Viewing hours are:

• Monday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Sunday: 1–5 p.m.
• Closed Sunday, Sept. 6 and Monday, Sept. 7 for Labor Day

The traveling exhibit includes 12 panels highlighting thematic connections among individuals from the Revolutionary era and three interactive kiosks that provide access to full digital biographies, historical context on the Revolutionary War and information about visiting sites associated with these individuals today.

The American Revolution Experience invites visitors to consider the choices faced by members of the Revolutionary generation as tensions mounted during the 1770s. Would ordinary citizens risk their lives and livelihoods in pursuit of liberty? Or would they remain loyal subjects of the British Crown, potentially coming into conflict with neighbors and family?

The exhibit presents diverse viewpoints and experiences, highlighting the journeys of Patriots and Loyalists, men and women, Black and Native populations and international allies. Rather than focusing solely on generals and famous statesmen, it introduces visitors to drummer boys, military mapmakers and other ordinary people whose lives were shaped by world-changing events. 

For further information contact A.K. Smiley Public Library Director Don McCue by email at [email protected] or call (909) 798 -7565.